Animal rescuer goes above and beyond

Kirstie Robertson, Pincher Creek Voice

At Heaven's Gate
K. Robertson photo

Heavens Gate Animal Sanctuary, owned and operated by Brigitte Boehmer, is a rescue ranch located outside of Lundbreck AB. There she lives out her intense passion for sharing her home and love with other living things by taking in almost any animal that needs a home. It’s currently home to a variety of animals from alpacas and sheep, to horses and pot bellied pigs.

“I began rescuing horses about ten years ago in Quebec. I used to give horses good homes and care for them,” Boehmer explained.  Her interests took her out west to southern Alberta, where she purchased a section of land and established her rescue operation. 

Her constantly growing number of animals includes about 16 horses, including a little blind pony named Acer. Suffering from a severe case of moon blindness, he has lost almost all of his vision. He lives out his days happily pestering the dogs with his other miniature partners in crime.

Acer the blind pony
K. Robertson photo

Brigitte not only shares her property with the many rescued animals, but also her home. Her pet sheep, pot bellied pigs, dogs, and on occasion her miniature horses like to frequent her halls and explore her home. Her bottle raised lamb Daisy, is very curious and lively. She is more or less under the impression that she is a dog, and follows Brigitte everywhere.

Daisy the pet sheep
K. Robertson photo

The most inspiring of Boehmer's accomplishments would be the connection she shares with each and every one of her animals. It’s easy to see the unconditional love exchanged between them, as well as the understanding and care that she pours into each one. They have no fear, reminiscent of the many abusive situations that they come from, and will readily run up to people for pats and praise.

People of many kinds are inspired to come and help work on her ranch by Boehmer's upbeat attitude and open doors. Most are volunteers from the organization ‘World-Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms’, otherwise known as ‘Wwoofer’s’. These volunteers come from all over the world to learn about different lifestyles, most being from European countries.

The ‘Wwoofers’ stay in cabins located on the ranch, and help out with the farm work: from upkeep of the facilities, to training, exercising, and working with the animals, assisting in meal preparations, and also their own personal activities, which include trail rides, hiking, swimming. "They always have fun. We have good times I look foreword to their visit and it is sad to see them go."

Brigitte loves her work, and plans on continuing to run her rescue for many years to come. She truly cares for the welfare of each and every animal, as and she says, "I love every animal lover. All animal lovers are welcome here."

Me making friends with a donkey
Roxanne Lambert photo